How We Size, Select & Justify the Right Heat Pump: Load Calculations and Selection

We don’t guess when it comes to sizing. We use ACCA Manual J for residential load calculations and ACCA Manual S procedures to select equipment that matches those loads. That means we measure and account for the specifics of your Cape Coral home so you can avoid oversizing that can contribute to short cycling and poor humidity control.

What we collect for a Manual J

  1. Window types, orientation, and shading
  2. Number of occupants and typical usage patterns
  3. Duct condition and measured leakage (if applicable)
  4. Local design temperatures and solar exposure

Installation Process: Step-by-Step Timeline & Customer Checklist

We keep installations predictable and transparent. Many full-system replacements can be completed in one day, but total time varies based on system complexity, ductwork needs, electrical work, and permit requirements. Here is the general workflow and what we need from you.

Before Install

  • Free assessment
  • Written quote that breaks out equipment, labor, permits, disposal, and any optional coastal upgrades
  • Scheduled install date and arrival window

Day-of workflow

  1. Arrive, protect floors and landscaping, shut down the old system

  2. Remove old equipment, set new pad/stand, install line-set and electrical, connect controls

  3. We start up the system, charge refrigerant to manufacturer specifications, verify safety controls, and complete a refrigerant leak check

  4. Final homeowner walkthrough and paperwork sign-off

Possible add-ons that extend the timeline include duct repairs, electrical panel upgrades, permit delays, or unexpected structural issues. We will notify you immediately if anything changes.

Cape Coral & Coastal-Specific Installation Considerations

We install many systems in the area, so we build each installation around Cape Coral’s salt air, heat, humidity, and storm exposure instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. Key things we do to protect your investment:

Elevated and Anchored Outdoor Units

Elevated pads or stands can reduce flood exposure, and approved tie-downs or anchors can help limit movement during high winds.

Site Placement and Airflow

Position condensers away from prevailing salt spray and landscaping; maintain recommended clearances for airflow and service access.

Electrical and Control Protection

Weatherproof disconnects, sealed conduit, and UV-resistant insulation on exterior wiring.

Cape Coral City Permits

  • Permits and inspections support code compliance and create a documented record of the work for your records and future buyers.

Maintenance Cadence by Proximity to the Water

Maintenance frequency should follow manufacturer guidance, and homes closer to salt air often need more frequent rinsing and inspections.

  • Near the Coast: Wipe down the outdoor unit with fresh water as needed and schedule more frequent inspections based on salt exposure and manufacturer recommendations.
  • Moderate Salt Exposure: Schedule inspections more often than inland homes when salt exposure is present, and follow manufacturer guidance for cleaning and coil protection.
  • Lower Salt Exposure: Annual maintenance is common for many systems, but the appropriate frequency depends on equipment type, runtime, and local conditions.

Contact Us for Heat Pump Installation or Replacement in Cape Coral, FL and Surrounding Areas.

Ready to replace or install a heat pump? Call Air Conditioning Repair Cape Coral at (239) 542-4247 to schedule an estimate. We will assess your home, review system options, and provide a clear quote and timeline before installation begins.